Royal Liver Building Attracting Thousands Of Visitors As New Tour Opens
Royal Liver Building Tour
The iconic Royal Liver Building which looks over Liverpool’s famous River Mersey has opened its doors to the public for the first time in more than a century.
Located at Liverpool’s Pier Head, at the heart of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, the giant building was one of only a few Liverpool landmarks that was unaffected by bombing during the Second World War.
The new visitor experience, Royal Liver Building 360, takes guests on a journey throughout the Grade I-listed building and for the very first time gives a unique insight into the history of the world-famous landmark. Designed by Walter Aubrey Thomas, the foundation stone for the building was laid in May 1908 and just 3 years later, on 19 July 1911, the building was officially opened by Lord Sheffield. It was originally the purpose-built home of the Royal Liver Assurance group. The history of the building is showcased in the new visitor-centre and tour which chronicles the key dates from its construction and its occupants over the years.
Visitors get the chance to look inside the famous clock tower, before experiencing panoramic views of Liverpool landmarks and across the River Mersey from the 15th floor.
The new attraction also allows visitors to get close to the legendary Liver Birds named Bella and Bertie.
Popular legend has it that while one giant bird looks out over the city to protect its people, the other bird looks out to sea at the new sailors coming in to port.
It is only on the RLB360 tour that you can find out about their origins and how their sheer size and scale can be truly appreciated.
Heritage GB, who operate the attraction, say they've seen a surge in bookings since Liverpool FC’s Champion’s League triumph in May as football mad fans have tried to get as close as possible to the legendary Liver Birds - the official symbol of the city and which appear on Liverpool FC’s crest.
Speaking to Trailblazer, Chris Devaney, Operations Manager for RLB360, said:
“Royal Liver Building 360 is a world-class visitor experience. It is a ‘bucket list’ experience for visitors to Liverpool.
Given that the building has not been open for public torus for over a century, we’ve been packed throughout the summer. We’re receiving daily online bookings from people from all over the world who want to experience it. Following Liverpool’s Champion s League win in May, we’ve also seen a surge in bookings from Liverpool FC fans who want to get as close as possible to the famous Liver Birds.
The tour gives a unique inside look at this world-famous landmark building. It is truly special to showcase this iconic and historic building to people and the feedback from people who’ve taken the tour is fantastic. We’re really proud of it.”
